This Cozy Southern Squash Casserole is warm and cheesy, perfect for family gatherings! With tender squash, creamy cheese, and crunchy topping, it’s comfort food at its finest.
I love making this dish when I want something simple yet satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, not that anyone’s complaining with that cheesy goodness! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! You can also use zucchini if you prefer a slightly different taste. Both are tender and blend well with cheese.
Onion: A sweet onion or yellow onion works great here. If you’re sensitive to onion flavor, try shallots for a milder taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice flavor kick. You can replace it with mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These ingredients help make the casserole creamy. Plain Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute for both, adding protein and tanginess.
Crushed Crackers: I like using Ritz for that buttery crunch, but any buttery crackers or even panko breadcrumbs will do. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers.
How Do You Properly Prepare the Squash to Avoid a Watery Casserole?
A key step is cooking and draining the squash well. Here’s how to ensure your casserole isn’t watery:
- First, slice the squash thinly so it cooks quickly.
- After boiling the squash and onion, place them in a colander and let sit for a few minutes to drain.
- For extra moisture removal, use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to press out as much liquid as possible.
This simple technique can make all the difference in texture and flavor! Enjoy your cooking!
Cozy Southern Squash Casserole With Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced (about 4 medium squash)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or buttery crackers)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for topping color)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30-40 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’re looking at about 55-60 minutes from start to finish. That’s not too much time for a delicious, cheesy dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will help your casserole come out easily without sticking.
2. Cook the Squash:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Carefully add in the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion. You’ll want to cook these for about 5 minutes until they’re slightly tender but still firm. Once done, drain them well and make sure to press out any excess water using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is crucial to avoid a watery casserole!
3. Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained squash and onions with the eggs, mayonnaise, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. This is where the magic starts to happen!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Now, pour the squash mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly in the pan. You want every bite to be delicious!
5. Add the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers with the melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are coated in butter. Then, sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for that lovely crunchy topping! If you’d like, go ahead and sprinkle a bit of paprika on top for added color and flavor.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and let it bake for 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. The aroma in your kitchen will be irresistible!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s done baking, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle. Serve it warm as a hearty side dish—trust me, it pairs wonderfully with fried chicken, baked ham, or any Southern-style meal!
Enjoy your cozy Southern squash casserole—it’s bound to become a family favorite!
FAQ for Cozy Southern Squash Casserole With Cheese
Can I Use Yellow Zucchini Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Yellow zucchini can be used as a substitute for yellow squash in this recipe. Both have similar textures and flavors, so the casserole will still turn out delicious.
How Can I Make This Casserole Healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and sour cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat cheese for a healthier option without sacrificing too much flavor.
Can I Prepare This Casserole In Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead of time. Simply follow the instructions up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might want to add a splash of cream or milk to keep it creamy!
